Mazda Kai Concept Looks Amazing, Previews New Mazda3

The current Mazda3 is a great looking hatchback, and if the Mazda Kai concept is anything to go by, the new Mazda3 will be even more attractive.

Unveiled at the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show, the Mazda Kai progresses Mazda’s current Kodo design language, strongly hinting at what the fourth-generation Mazda3 will look like. It oozes masculinity, power and sportiness.

The driver-focused interior has a very minimalistic design, featuring an infotainment system that’s integrated into the dashboard for a much sleeker look than the infotainment system in the current Mazda3.

The Kai concept is based on the company’s new Skyactiv-vehicle architecture and powered by its next-generation Skyactiv-X engine, a remarkable piece of technology that will be the first compression-ignition engine to hit the market.

The Skyactiv-X engine will not only be between 20-30 percent more efficient than Mazda’s current engines, but will also have up to 30 percent more torque.

Gorgeous looks and revolutionary technology aside, we can also expect great handling. I have high hopes of the new Mazda3.

The Italian automaker is getting ready to enter the electric vehicle segment.

Alfa Romeo used the 2019 Geneva Motor show to debut the Tonale Concept, previewing its first plug-in hybrid.

Sharing a design language with the larger Stelvio, the sleek compact crossover stands out with a large lower grille flanked by LED-array headlights that are thinner than those on the Stelvio and retro design elements like Alfa Romeo’s characteristic phone-dial wheel, which as borrowed from the 33 Stradale of the 1960s.

Highlights of the interior include a 12.3-inch full digital instrument cluster, a large 10.25-inch touchscreen for the central head unit, and premium materials ranging from aluminum to Alcantara and leather.

Technical details or a launch window for the production Tonale were not revealed, but the model was envisioned with a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

Alfa Romeo plans to launch a total of six PHEVs by the end of 2022, and the Tonale will certainly be one of them.

Toyota Supra TRD Concept Shows Off New Carbon Fiber Parts

It’s an unbridled love affair with carbon fiber.

Not long after taking the wraps off at the Detroit Auto Show, Toyota has revealed a TRD Concept that shows off some of the accessories from Toyota Racing Development possibly coming to the Japanese sports car.

Unveiled at the Osaka Auto Messe aftermarket show, the Toyota GR Supra Performance Line Concept TRD is fitted with many new carbon fiber parts to increase downforce and reduce lift. The front spoiler, side skirts, and rear spoiler and spats are all crafted from carbon fiber, while a carbon fiber door garnish replaces the stock faux vent to reduce turbulence of the airflow over the rear end.

The exterior is finished in a muted silver color that compliments the carbon fiber parts nicely, while unique 19-inch wheels highlight the four corners.

Unfortunately, TRD made no upgrades under the hood. Power is provided by the stock Supra’s turbocharged 3.0L inline-six, generating the same ol’ 335 hp and 365 lb-ft. of torque.

It’s not known if or when these carbon fiber parts and new wheels will be available, and whether they will remain exclusive to the Japanese market like many TRD parts in the past. Either way, share your thoughts about the Toyota GR Supra Performance Line Concept TRD in the comments below.

This Crossover Concept Previews Cadillac’s First-Ever EV

It came out of nowhere and shocked the Detroit Auto Show.

Cadillac followed up the unveiling of the Cadillac XT6 large crossover with a preview of its first-ever all-electric vehicle.

Taking the form of premium electric crossover, the concept is striking and likely also hints at the brand’s future design direction.

“Cadillac’s EV will hit the heart of the crossover market and meet the needs of customers around the world,” said Steve Carlisle, president of Cadillac. “It will represent the height of luxury and innovation while positioning Cadillac as the pinnacle of mobility.”

The surprising reveal comes not long after General Motors announced that Cadillac will lead its electric vehicle strategy, effectively making it the automaker’s Tesla-fighter. Specific details such as power or features aren’t known, nor do we have a definitive timetable as to when the production model will be ready, but it will be the first GM vehicle to be built on the company’s forthcoming dedicated EV platform and should offer level 4 autonomous capabilities at the least.

In essence, not only will the vehicle be Cadillac’s first step into the EV world, but it will also push it deeper into the autonomous realm.